“Sanibel” started as a light-hearted exploration of the businesses and colorful characters central to seashell culture/touring in Southwest Florida. Six weeks into production, Hurricane Ian, one of the largest hurricanes in US history, all but wiped Sanibel Island off the map.
As the waters receded, the crew returned to find a transformed landscape. The film now posed a deeper question: would the community endure the overwhelming burden of grief, or would it find a way to heal and rebuild?
“Sanibel” is a captivating documentary that delves into the lives of seashell collectors, local captains, and business owners as they confront the challenges posed by Hurricane Ian. This film transforms from a celebration of shelling into a profound narrative of community strength and recovery.